JP2005509245A - Method and apparatus for synchronizing lighting effects - Google Patents

Abstract

  In one example, the lighting device comprises a processor configured to control a color change lighting effect generated by the lighting device. The processor is further configured to monitor the power supply during operation. The processor is further configured to synchronize the color changing lighting effect in concert with the operating power supply parameters.

Description

[Field of the Invention]
The present invention generally relates to light emitting diode devices. More particularly, various embodiments of the present invention relate to lighting systems and methods for controlling such systems.

[Description of related technology]
Specialized lighting systems that can be configured to provide color changing lighting effects (hereinafter referred to as “color changing lighting effects”), such as color changing LED lighting devices, lighting devices with movable filters, etc. ) Exists. Some of such systems can be configured in a network structure to generate coordinated lighting effects. Lighting systems for generating coordinated lighting effects are typically prevalent in theater lighting, and are also becoming prevalent in other places where color change lighting effects are desirable. There are also color change lighting systems that are not associated with the network. Such a system may include a certain number of lighting components that are not synchronized.

[Summary of Invention]
One embodiment of the present invention is a lighting device. The lighting device includes a processor configured to control a color change lighting effect generated by the lighting device, the processor further configured to monitor a power supply during operation, the processor further including the processor It is configured to synchronize the color changing lighting effect in cooperation with the parameters of the operating power supply.

  One embodiment of the present invention is a lighting device. The lighting device includes a processor configured to execute a program to control lighting effects generated by the lighting device, the processor further configured to monitor a power supply during operation, the processor Furthermore, it is configured to synchronize the execution of the program in cooperation with the parameters of the operating power source.

  One embodiment of the present invention is a lighting device. The lighting device includes a processor configured to control a lighting effect generated by the lighting device, the processor further configured to monitor a parameter of a power supply during operation, the processor further including the processor The lighting effect is synchronized with the parameter.

  One embodiment of the present invention is a method for generating a lighting effect. The method includes providing a lighting device; providing power to the lighting device; causing the lighting device to monitor at least one parameter of power applied to the lighting device; and synchronizing with the at least one parameter. And generating a color change lighting effect in the lighting device.

  One embodiment of the present invention is a lighting device. The lighting device includes a processor configured to execute a program to control a lighting effect generated by the lighting device, the processor further configured to receive a synchronization signal from an external source, The processor is further configured to synchronize execution of the program in cooperation with the synchronization signal.

  The drawings illustrate certain exemplary embodiments of the invention, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements. These illustrated embodiments are to be understood as illustrative of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting in any way.

[Detailed description]
The following description relates to some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Many variations of the present invention are contemplated by those skilled in the art, and such variations and modifications are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is not limited in any way by the following disclosure.

  The applicant has recognized and appreciated that there are lighting applications where it is desirable to coordinate the light output of multiple light sources that are not necessarily configured in a network environment, as described above. For example, it may be desirable to change all light that is not networked simultaneously in a room or a section of a room so that they are the same color at any one time but change continuously at a certain rate . Such an effect is referred to as a “color wash”. The color wash can give the following sequence: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, orange, etc. in order. When powering up, all light begins the same state and the color wash appears to be synchronized. If the color wash speed is relatively slow and the duration of the cycle through the color wash is significant, eg, 1 minute or more, the light appears to be synchronized. However, this seemingly tricks people and there is no cooperative signal to ensure that the light is actually synchronized. This scheme relies on an independent internal clock that remains in sync and some event to initiate the effect, typically power-up. As time goes on, the light may be out of phase with each other and may no longer be in sync. This is due to slight variations or drift over time in the timing components common to all microprocessor circuits. These components are subject to variations due to manufacturing processes, temperature variations and the like. This drift, if slow, is observable, and if the timing of the event controlled by the microprocessor is rapid, it can be in the order of tens of minutes or definitely in the order of hours. It will be obvious.

  The above description of the “color wash” lighting effect is for illustrative purposes only, and it should be understood that any of a variety of lighting effects can be affected by similar synchronization problems. In view of the foregoing, Applicants have recognized that it would be useful to provide a lighting system that can generate synchronized lighting effects without necessarily requiring network configuration and Have been highly appreciated.

  Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention is directed to a lighting system that generates a synchronized lighting effect. In one embodiment, the lighting system monitors the power source and synchronizes the lighting effects generated by the lighting system with the parameters of the power source. For example, the lighting system can be attached to an AC power source and the lighting system can include a processor configured to execute a lighting program. The timing of program execution can be coordinated with the frequency of AC power, voltage or current. In one embodiment, the lighting system may coordinate lighting effects with power source transient parameters, or other randomly, periodically, or otherwise generated parameters of the power source. This provides a synchronized lighting effect without the need for network communication. In one embodiment, the lighting system may include one or more pre-programmed lighting effects and a user interface that selects one of those lighting effects. Once the effect is selected, the processor may execute the program in concert with the power supply parameters, causing a synchronized occurrence of the lighting effect.

  In one embodiment, the lighting system according to the invention generates a lighting effect in coordination with a reference value. In one aspect, several such lighting systems can be associated with a power source, and all systems will be coordinated with each other because they are coordinated with the parameters of the power source. For example, several lighting systems could be attached to the power source in the passage. Each lighting system monitors the execution of their lighting effects and coordinates the execution with the power supply so that each lighting system produces its effects in coordination with each other. Each lighting system can generate a color wash, and the color wash effect from each lighting system remains synchronized.

  Another aspect of the invention is an adjustable timing circuit configured to change the timing of the occurrence of the lighting effect. In one embodiment, the timing circuit is associated with the user interface so that the user can adjust the timing of the occurrence of the lighting effect. For example, some lighting systems are associated with a power source in the aisle, and each system can be set to a color wash effect. A user can adjust the timing of each of several lighting systems to begin execution of the lighting program at different times. The system further down the passage can be adjusted with increasing delay so that the color wash is offset by a certain amount as the system moves down the hole. This results in a staggered effect, and in this staggered color wash case, a rainbow that is washed down the passage. The timing could be configured such that, for example, as the first lighting system cycles through blue to the next color, the second lighting system is cycling into blue. In one embodiment, the timing circuit may be provided with a timing that may vary substantially continuously. In one embodiment, the timing circuit may be provided with an offset of a predetermined period. Another example of an effective or desirable lighting effect that appears to move from one lighting system to another is a “chasing effect”. This tracking effect appears to pass red light, for example, from the first light to the second light and then to the third light. The timing of red light generation can be synchronized through a system according to the principles of the present invention. Thus, the first light may generate red light for a predetermined time, eg, 5 seconds, or a certain number of synchronization cycles. During this period, the second light may be off (ie, produce no effect), and following this period, the second light may produce a red lighting effect for the same period. This effect appears to propagate through many lighting systems and appears to track red light, for example down the passage. In one embodiment, there may be a delay imposed between the two lighting systems that produce the effect. For example, a program that the lighting system is executing may generate a delay period so that it does not generate a red lighting effect until 2 seconds or a certain number of cycles have elapsed. In another embodiment, a user adjustable timer may be used to generate the delay. Adjustments can be used to create aspects that take time to transfer the red lighting effect from the first lighting system to the second lighting system and so on.

  In one embodiment, an adjustable timing circuit may be used to compensate for phase or frequency differences in a given installation. For example, a room may be provided with several electrical outlets supplied by one phase of the AC power distribution system and several electrical outlets supplied by another phase of the AC power distribution system. The timing circuit can be configured to compensate for the phase difference so that the timing of the lighting effects from the lighting system for the two phases is in sync.

  While many of the embodiments herein teach synchronizing the generation of lighting effects such as color-change lighting effects, in one embodiment, the synchronization function is used to synchronize other events as well. Can be For example, a lighting system can be configured to generate a lighting effect at a given time and measure that time using a synchronization signal. For example, there can be several lighting systems in the installed state and they can generate a continuous color change lighting effect in a synchronized state. Some lighting systems can be programmed to change the mode to a fixed color mode, for example, after they have generated a color change effect for a period of 5 minutes. The synchronization signal can be generated from the AC power line peak, zero crossing, or some other parameter and can be used to calculate or measure a period of 5 minutes. In this example, some lighting systems will stop generating color change effects and go to a fixed color mode simultaneously. This is because these lighting systems generate the lighting effect in synchronization with the synchronization signal. In one embodiment, the timing of events, or synchronization, can be done in absolute time (eg, know or measure the frequency and generate a real-time clock, or a clock pulse of a known rate), or Timing can be a relative measure (eg, does not know the real-time appearance of the parameter, but synchronizes to the occurrence of that occurrence).

  System according to the present invention can be used for indoor lighting, outdoor lighting, landscape lighting, pool lighting, hot spring lighting, accent lighting, general lighting, walkway lighting, route lighting, guidance lighting system, decorative lighting, informational lighting, or synchronization There are many environments that can be used as in any other range or situation where a structured lighting effect is desirable or effective.

  FIG. 1 illustrates a lighting system 100 in accordance with the principles of the present invention. The lighting system 100 may include one or more LEDs 104A, 104B, and 104C. The LED 104 may be provided on the platform 128. When two or more LEDs are used in the lighting system 100, the LEDs are mounted on the platform 128, thereby mixing the light projected from the LEDs and projecting the mixed color. In one embodiment, LEDs 104A, 104B, and 104C may produce different colors (eg, 104A is red, 104B is green, and 104C is blue). The lighting system 100 can also include a processor 102 that can independently control the output of the LEDs 104A, 104B, and 104C. The processor generates a control signal to operate the LED. The control signal may be a pulse modulated signal, a pulse width modulated signal (PWM), a pulse amplitude modulated signal, an analog control signal, or other control signal for changing the output of the LED. In one embodiment, the processor may control other circuitry to control the output of the LED. Multiple LEDs may be provided in multiple column states of two or more LEDs, each column being controlled as a group, and the processor 102 may control two or more columns of LEDs. There are many systems and methods that can be used by those skilled in the art to operate LED (s) or LED string (s), and the present invention describes such systems and methods. Will allow inclusion. In one embodiment, the processor may be configured to control an illumination source that is not an LED. For example, the system can include an incandescent lamp, a halogen lamp, a fluorescent lamp, a high intensity discharge lamp, a metal halide lamp, or other illumination source, and the processor controls the intensity or other aspect of the illumination source. Can be configured to. In one embodiment, the processor may include a filter, a filter wheel, a filter that includes two or more colors, a movable filter, multiple filters, or the like to filter light projected by the lighting system. It can be configured to control.

  A lighting system 100 according to the principles of the present invention may generate a range of colors within a color spectrum. For example, the lighting system 100 may be provided with a plurality of LEDs (e.g., 104A-104C) and the processor 102 combines the light from two or more LEDs to produce mixed color light. The output of the LED can be controlled to do so. Such lighting systems can be used in a wide variety of applications, including displays, room lighting, decorative lighting, special effects lighting, direct lighting, indirect lighting, or any other application where lighting would be desirable. Many such lighting systems can be networked together to form large networked lighting applications.

  In one embodiment, the LEDs 104 and / or other components that make up the lighting system 100 may be disposed within the housing. The housing can be configured to provide illumination to a range and can be configured to provide a linear illumination pattern, a circular illumination pattern, a rectangle, a square, or other illumination pattern within a space or environment. For example, a straight structure may be provided at the upper end of the wall along the boundary between the wall and the ceiling, and light may be projected below the wall or along the ceiling to produce a certain lighting effect. . In one embodiment, the intensity of the generated light may be sufficient to provide a surface (eg, a wall) with sufficient light that can see the lighting effect in typical ambient lighting conditions. In one embodiment, the illumination system so housed can be used as a direct view illumination system. For example, a lighting system so housed can be attached to the outside of a building where an observer can directly view the illuminated section of the lighting system. The housing includes an optical device so that light from the LED 104 can be projected through the optical device. This can help to mix, redirect, or otherwise change the light pattern generated by the LED. The LED 104 can be placed in or on the housing, or otherwise attached as desired in a particular application. In one embodiment, the housing and lighting system 100 may be configured as a device that plugs into a standard wall electrical outlet for electrical connection. The system can be configured to project light into the environment. In one embodiment, the system is configured to project light onto a part other than a wall, floor, ceiling, or environment. In one embodiment, the illumination system is configured to project light into the diffusing optical instrument such that the optical instrument appears to shine in the projected color. The color can be a mixed, filtered, or otherwise altered color of light, and the system can be configured to change the color of the light projected onto the optical instrument.

  The lighting system 100 may also include a memory 114 that may store one or more lighting programs and / or data. The lighting system 100 may also include a user interface 118 for changing and / or selecting a lighting effect generated by the lighting system 100. Communication between the user interface and the processor can be accomplished via wired or wireless transmission. The processor 102 is associated with the memory 114 such that the processor 102 executes a lighting program stored in the memory 114, for example. The user interface 118 may be configured to select a program or lighting effect from the memory 114 so that the processor 102 can execute the selected program.

  The illumination system 100 may also include sensors and / or transducers and / or other signal generators (hereinafter collectively referred to as sensors). The sensor may be associated with the processor 102 via a wired or wireless transmission system. Very similar to the user interface and network control system, the sensor can provide a signal to the processor, and the processor selects a new LED control signal from the memory 114, modifies the LED control signal, and generates a control signal. Or otherwise respond by changing the output of the LED. In one embodiment, the lighting system 100 includes a communication port 124 so that control signals can be communicated to the lighting system. Communication port 124 may be used for any of a number of reasons. For example, the communication port 124 may be configured to receive a new program to be stored in memory or to receive program information to modify a program in memory. Communication port 124 may also be used to send information to another lit or non-illuminated system. For example, the lighting system 100 may be configured as a master, where it transmits information to other lighting systems, either via a network or a power line. The master lighting system may generate a signal that is multiplexed with the power signal so that another lighting system on the same power system will monitor and address the parameter. This can take the form of a timing gun in that system, where all lighting systems generate their own lighting effects from memory, but the timing of lighting effects depends on the power supply This is accomplished by monitoring the parameters of

  In one embodiment, the lighting system 100 includes a power monitoring system 130. This power monitoring system 130 may be associated with a power source (not shown). In one embodiment, power monitoring system 130 is associated with a power source that provides power to lighting system 100. In one embodiment, the processor 102 is associated with a clock pulse generator (not shown). The clock pulse generator may generate clock pulses from an AC power source associated with the power monitoring circuit. The clock pulse generator may filter the AC power and form the clock pulse in synchronization with the AC power cycle. In one embodiment, the clock pulse may be generated in phase with a portion of the AC wave. The method for generating clock pulses may detect and filter a 110 VAC 60 Hz waveform to provide 60 Hz, 120 Hz, or other frequency clock pulses. The clock pulses can then be used to provide a synchronized clock to the lighting device circuitry. For example, a peak threshold circuit combined with a monostable multivibrator is an example of such a circuit. Those skilled in the art know that other ways of generating clock pulses from the AC line and that the generation of clock pulses can be timed with other parameters of the power supply such as voltage, current, frequency or other parameters. It will be. For example, the system may utilize a single resistor connected between the AC line and the microprocessor input pin. This allows the microprocessor to determine whether the AC voltage is positive or negative at any time, and then uses software methods to count transitions from one state to the other, A timing reference can be established. For example, monitoring changes in the slope of the waveform, creating thresholds at various voltages (either constant or changing), creating thresholds for current drawn by the load (including the lamp itself) Various other characteristics of the AC waveform can be monitored to establish a timing reference, including that and other methods. Also, there is a virtually unlimited number of circuits that can be designed to extract timing information from the AC line, and the purpose here is not to propose a limited subset of such circuits, but rather It should be understood that this is to provide some example cases.

  In one embodiment, clock pulses are used to synchronize the generation of lighting effects generated by the lighting system 100. For example, the processor 102 of the lighting system 100 can be configured to execute a lighting program from the memory 114, and the timing of its execution can be synchronized with clock pulses. Although this embodiment teaches generating clock pulses from periodically occurring conditions or parameters of the power supply, it should be understood that instantaneous conditions of the power supply can be used as well. For example, the power supply can deliver transients from any number of sources and the lighting system can be configured to monitor such transients and coordinate the generation of lighting effects with the transients. In general, the transient is communicated or passed to all devices associated with the power source so that all lighting systems associated with a given power source effectively receive the same transient at the same time. This will keep all lighting devices synchronized. The transients can be voltage, current, power or other transients.

  Another aspect of the present invention is a system and method for adjusting the timing of the generation of lighting effects. In one embodiment, the processor 102 of the lighting system 100 may be associated with the timing circuit 132. Timing circuit 132 may be configured to provide adjustable timing for the occurrence of lighting effects. For example, timing circuit 132 is associated with the user interface to allow the user to adjust the timing as desired. The adjustment may be provided as a substantially continuous adjustment, a segmented adjustment, an adjustment over a period of time, or any other desired adjustment.

  Most homes and offices will have multiple branch circuits on multiple separate circuit breakers or fuses. In the case of prior art devices, it is difficult and undesirable in these situations to switch the entire circuits on and off to provide a synchronized power up. When multiple individual components are plugged into multiple separate outlets for electrical connection and the multiple individual components are on multiple separate circuits, this synchronizes the individual devices and instruments Make it difficult to do. One aspect of the present invention is to provide a system for adjusting the cycle in which each device is operating. In effect, this adjusts the phase of the generated lighting effect so that the device can be synchronized. This can take the form of an encoder, button, switch, dial, linear motion switch, rotary dial, trimmer pot, receiver, transceiver, or other such device. When they are rotated, pushed, activated or communicated, they adjust and shift the part of the cycle in which the device is in a cycle state. A button press can, for example, stop the operation of the device and wait for the user to “catch up” with another device that has been stopped and released at the correct part of the cycle. If the effect is rapid, such as a fast color wash, a button press can be used to slowly shift the effect while the effect continues. That is, actuation of the adjustment system can result in slowing or speeding up the timing by changing only a few percent. If the conditioning device is a receiver or transceiver, the external signal can be provided to the lighting device via IR, RF, microwave, telephone, electromagnetic, wired, cable, network or other signal. For example, a remote control device may be provided, and the remote control device has a button, dial, or other selection device so that when the selection device is activated, a signal is communicated to the lighting system and program execution And the phase of the relationship between the clock pulses can be adjusted.

  In one embodiment, the lighting device may generate sound to assist timing adjustment. For example, the sound is similar to a metronome and may give the user a reference for setting the timing system. For example, some lighting systems require synchronization and may provide an audio tone (e.g., a high sound like a timed bug) to assist in setting. Some lighting devices can generate audio tones and the user can go to each lighting and adjust the timing until the user hears the tone synchronized.

  In one embodiment, an adjustment device that shifts the phase of program execution by a predetermined amount may also be provided. For example, the first lighting device may remain synchronized with the AC line, while the second lighting system may be set to begin its cycle 30 seconds after the first lighting device. A third lighting system could then do so in 30 seconds after the second lighting system. For example, this can be used to generate a rainbow effect that is moving or tracking in the passage. The predetermined amount may be a portion of the phase of the power waveform, such as 90 degrees, 180 degrees, 270 degrees, or other phase of the power waveform.

  A lighting system in accordance with the principles of the present invention may include a user interface 118, where the user interface 118 is used to select programs, program parameters, make adjustments, or make other user selections. . One of the user choices could be in a synchronization mode, in which the system coordinates its activity with clock pulses. The user interface 118 could be used to select a synchronization mode and / or a color effect mode. In one embodiment, the user interface 118 may be a button. The button can be held down for a predetermined period of time to set the device in synchronized mode. The button is then used to select a program and operate in synchronism with the clock pulse. In addition, several buttons, dials, switches or other user interfaces could be used to achieve these effects.

  In one embodiment, the power cycle could also initiate a synchronization mode or change the phase of synchronization. An energy storage component (not shown) (eg, a capacitor in an RC circuit) could also be used in the system to provide a high logic signal or a low logic signal. The energy storage component could be associated with a power source and associated with a processor in the system. When the system is powered down and reapplied within a predetermined period of time, the system will be able to go into a synchronous mode. The power cycle could also change the phase of program execution relative to the clock pulse.

  In one embodiment, timing circuit adjustments can be used to provide phase adjustments for other entertaining effects. For example, if a certain number of overnight lights or other luminaires are plugged into electrical outlets along the aisle for electrical connection, the rainbow is moved down the aisle, thereby red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo The color, violet (ROYGBIV) sequence moves slowly and shifts down the hole over time. By powering all the devices in the path and using phase adjustment to select the part of the cycle that will be there, the above effects can be generated without additional means of communication or control. it can. Another solution is a fixed adjustment of the phase control, such as a dial that gives a fixed setting, or an on-board memory that stores phase information. In this way, power flicker or a light switch that is faulty or unintentionally switched will not require resetting all devices. In one embodiment, the lighting system may include a memory that stores timing, phase, adjustment, or other information. In one embodiment, the memory can be non-volatile, battery-backed, or otherwise configured to provide information recall upon system power re-supply. The phase adjustment can be achieved, for example, via a button added to the device that allows the user to push or stop the effect until another luminaire “catch up” on the current display. In this way, only one other light needs to be visible to any other to allow synchronization when the user is accomplishing a task by that user or by the user himself. Another mode is to allow “fast forward” of the display until it catches up with the reference display. When the two are at the same point in the sequence, the button will be released and the two will stay in sync from that point on.

  Another aspect of the present invention is a system and method for generating clock pulses and communicating the clock pulses from a master lighting system to a slave lighting system. In one embodiment, the processor 102 generates a clock pulse signal that may or may not be associated with a power supply, and then transmits the clock pulse signal through the communication port 124 or through another power line. Can communicate to the device. Such communication may be accomplished via a wired or wireless communication system. In this embodiment, it is not necessary to generate clock pulses from power supply parameters, although it is possible. This is because not only the master (ie, the lighting device that generates the clock pulse) generates the pulse, but it also communicates the pulse to other devices. Other devices may not monitor power supply parameters. This is because other devices synchronize the generation of their lighting effects in concert with the received pulse signal. In one embodiment, the slave lighting system may be configured to retransmit the clock pulses received by the slave lighting system to coordinate several lighting systems. This can be useful if the communication medium is limited and otherwise a specific lighting system cannot be reached. In one embodiment, the clock pulse generator may be separate from the lighting system.

  2 and 3 illustrate an environment in which a system according to the principles of the present invention may be useful. FIG. 2 illustrates a wall 202 with several illuminators 200. In one embodiment, the lighting body 200 includes the lighting system 100 and is adapted to be connected to a wall electrical outlet (not shown). Many adapters that can be used to connect the illuminator 200 to electrical power, such as a spade plug adapter, a screw-type adapter, an Edison screw-type adapter, a wedge-type adapter, a pin-type adapter, or others There are as many adapters as there are. FIG. 3 illustrates a swimming pool, hot tub, hot spring, etc. in which there is an illuminator 200 that can generate synchronized lighting effects through the system as described herein. Although systems in accordance with the principles of the present invention may be used in a wide variety of environments, the environments of FIGS. 2 and 3 are provided for illustrative purposes only.

  FIG. 4 illustrates an environment in accordance with the principles of the present invention. The environment may include a window 404, a window shader 402 such as a window curtain, and a lighting body 200. The illuminating body 200 can be configured as an illuminating body that looks directly like in a candle-shaped illuminating body on a window sill (bottom frame), or the illuminating body 200 is a wall mounted type that projects light onto a light blocking body 402 It may be configured as an indirectly visible illuminating body so as to comprise an illuminating body. In this example, the wall-mounted illuminating body 200 is arranged to project light onto the light blocking body 402. The illuminator can be projected onto the front or back or through the edges of those faces. This configuration can provide an illuminated shader and can be used to generate a lighting effect that will be seen from outside the house, for example. Some lighting bodies 200 may be synchronized to provide a synchronized lighting effect. For example, the user may wish to generate a lighting effect that sequentially generates red, white and blue light. The user may want to display the same color in all windows simultaneously, or the user may want the color to appear to move from window to window.

  Although many of the embodiments disclosed herein teach synchronizing a lighting system without the use of a network, the network transmits cooperative signals between lighting systems according to the principles of the present invention. A communication system used to communicate may be provided. The lighting system can be part of a network, wired or wireless network, and the lighting system can receive clock pulse signals from the network and coordinate the execution of programs from the memory 114. The memory 114 can be built in and some lighting systems associated with the network can generate lighting effects from their own memory system. The synchronization signal provided by the network may be used by each lighting device associated with the network to provide a synchronized lighting effect. Although some embodiments describe the configuration of a master / slave lighting system herein, a separate synchronization signal source is used to generate the synchronization signal and via wired or wireless communication It should be understood that it will be possible to communicate to the lighting system.

  Although the LEDs 104A, 104B, and 104C in FIG. 1 are shown as red, green, and blue, the LEDs in the system according to the present invention are optional including white, ultraviolet, infrared, or other colors in the electromagnetic spectrum. It should be understood that the color may be As used herein, the term “LED” refers to all types of light emitting diodes, light emitting polymers, semiconductor dies that produce light in response to current, organic LEDs, electroluminescent strips, and others. It should be understood to include such systems. In one embodiment, “LED” may refer to a single light emitting diode having multiple semiconductor dies that are individually controlled. It should also be understood that the term “LED” does not limit the type of LED package. The term “LED” includes LEDs that are packaged, LEDs that are not packaged, surface mount LEDs, chip on board LEDs, and all other forms of LEDs. The term “LED” also includes LEDs packaged with or associated with materials that can convert energy from the LEDs to different wavelengths (eg, phosphors).

  The term “processor” can mean any system that processes electrical, analog or digital signals. The term “processor” should be understood to encompass microprocessors, microcontrollers, integrated circuits, computers, and other processing systems, as well as any circuitry designed to perform the intended function. For example, the processor may be passive or active analog components including resistors, capacitors, inductors, transistors, operational amplifiers, etc., and / or logic components, shift registers, latches, or any other configuration for implementing digital functions. It can be formed from individual circuits such as individual digital components such as elements.

  It should be understood that the term “illuminate” means the generation of the frequency of radiation by the illumination source. It should be understood that the term “color” means any radiation frequency within a spectrum, ie “color” as used herein, It should be understood that this encompasses frequencies in the infrared and ultraviolet ranges of the spectrum, as well as frequencies in other ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum, as well as frequencies in the visible spectrum. It should be understood that the color of light can be described as its hue, saturation, and / or brightness.

  Although many of the embodiments describe systems that use LEDs herein, it should be understood that other illumination sources may be used. As the term is used herein, “illumination source” refers to all illumination sources, including LED systems, as well as incandescent light sources, including incandescent bulbs, and pyro-luminous sources. Candle-luminescent sources such as gas mantles and carbon arc radiation sources, and electroluminescent sources such as gas discharges, fluorescent sources, phosphorescent sources, photoluminescent sources, lasers, electroluminescent lamps A wide variety of luminescent sources, including luminescent sources, light emitting diodes, and cathodoluminescent sources using electronic saturation, and current fluorescent sources, crystallo-luminescent sources, kineluminescent Source (kine-luminescent sources), Thermo luminescent sources (thermo-luminescent sources), tribo-luminescence source, sonoluminescence source, and it should be understood to include radiation fluorescent source. The illumination source may also include a luminescent polymer that is capable of producing a primary color.

  Although many of the embodiments described herein describe a color wash effect, it should be understood that the present invention encompasses many different effects. For example, the present invention provides a continuously changing lighting effect, a substantially continuously changing lighting effect, a rapidly changing lighting effect, a color changing lighting effect, an intensity changing lighting effect, a gradually changing lighting effect, or Includes any other desirable or effective lighting effect.

  While the invention has been disclosed in connection with the preferred embodiments shown and described in detail, various changes and modifications thereto will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the present invention should be limited only by the claims.

FIG. 1 shows a lighting device according to the principles of the present invention. FIG. 2 illustrates an environment with illumination in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 3 illustrates an environment with illumination in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 4 illustrates an environment with illumination in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

Claims (70)

A processor configured to control a color change lighting effect generated by the lighting device;
The processor is further configured to monitor a power source during operation;
The processor is further configured to synchronize color change lighting effects in concert with the parameters of the operating power supply.   The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the parameter includes a parameter that periodically changes during operation.   The lighting device according to claim 2, wherein the periodically changing parameter includes a periodically changing voltage.   The lighting device according to claim 2, wherein the periodically changing parameter includes a periodically changing frequency.   The lighting device according to claim 2, wherein the periodically changing parameter includes a periodically changing current.   The lighting device according to claim 2, wherein the periodically changing parameter includes periodically changing electric power.   The lighting device according to claim 2, wherein the power source includes an AC power source.   The lighting device according to claim 7, wherein the frequency of the AC power source is approximately 60 Hz.   The lighting device according to claim 7, wherein the frequency of the AC power supply is approximately 50 Hz.   The lighting device of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to monitor an instantaneously changing parameter of the power source during the operation.   The lighting device according to claim 10, wherein the instantaneously changing parameter includes a transient component.   The lighting device according to claim 11, wherein the transient includes a voltage transient.   The lighting device according to claim 11, wherein the transient includes a current transient.   The lighting device according to claim 11, wherein the transient includes a power transient.   The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the power supply supplies power to the lighting device.   The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the lighting device includes red, green, and blue lighting devices.   The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the lighting device includes an LED lighting device.   18. The lighting device of claim 17, wherein the LED lighting device further comprises at least two LEDs of different colors, and the at least two LEDs are independently controlled by the processor.   18. The lighting device of claim 17, wherein the LED lighting device further comprises at least three LEDs of different colors, and the at least three LEDs are independently controlled by the processor.   The lighting device of claim 19, wherein the at least three colors include red, green, and blue. A light source;
Further comprising at least one movable filter;
The movable filter is associated with the light source such that filtered light is projected from the lighting device,
The lighting device of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to position the movable filter relative to the light source.   The lighting device of claim 21, wherein the at least one movable filter comprises at least two different color filters.   The lighting device according to claim 1, further comprising a timing adjustment circuit configured to adjust a timing of occurrence of a color change lighting effect with respect to the parameter.   The lighting device of claim 23, wherein the timing adjustment circuit is associated with a user interface.   The lighting device of claim 24, wherein the user interface provides a range of adjustments.   25. The lighting device of claim 24, wherein the user interface provides a plurality of adjustment settings.   27. The lighting device of claim 26, wherein the plurality of settings comprises a plurality of predetermined timing settings.   The lighting device according to claim 27, wherein the power source is an AC power source.   29. The lighting device of claim 28, wherein the predetermined timing setting comprises a 90 degree phase shift from the phase of the AC power source.   29. The lighting device of claim 28, wherein the predetermined timing setting comprises a 180 degree phase shift from the phase of the AC power source.   29. The lighting device of claim 28, wherein the predetermined timing setting comprises a 270 degree phase shift from the phase of the AC power source.   The lighting device of claim 1, wherein the color change lighting effect comprises a substantially continuous color change lighting effect.   The lighting device according to claim 1, wherein the color change lighting effect includes an abrupt color change lighting effect.   The lighting device according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of lighting effects.   The lighting device of claim 34, wherein at least one of the plurality of lighting effects is selectable via a user interface.   36. The lighting device of claim 35, wherein the processor is further configured to synchronize a selected lighting effect in concert with the parameter. A processor configured to execute a program to control a lighting effect generated by the lighting device;
The processor is further configured to monitor a power source during operation;
The lighting device is further configured to synchronize execution of the program in coordination with parameters of the operating power source. A processor configured to control a lighting effect generated by the lighting device;
The processor is further configured to monitor parameters of the operating power source;
The processor is further configured to synchronize the generation of lighting effects in cooperation with the parameters.   The lighting device of claim 38, wherein the parameter comprises a periodic parameter.   40. The lighting device of claim 39, wherein the periodic parameter comprises a frequency of power supplied by the power source.   40. A lighting device as recited in claim 39, wherein said periodic parameter comprises a periodic voltage supplied by said power source.   40. A lighting device as recited in claim 39, wherein said periodic parameter comprises a periodic current provided by said power source.   The lighting device of claim 38, wherein the parameter comprises an instantaneous parameter.   44. The lighting device of claim 43, wherein the instantaneous parameter includes a transient parameter. A method for producing a lighting effect,
Providing a lighting device;
Providing power to the lighting device;
Causing the lighting device to monitor at least one parameter of power applied to the lighting device;
Generating a lighting effect in the lighting device in synchronization with the at least one parameter.   46. The method of claim 45, wherein the lighting effect comprises a color change lighting effect.   47. The method of claim 46, wherein the at least one parameter comprises a periodically changing parameter.   48. The method of claim 47, wherein the periodically changing parameter comprises a periodically changing voltage.   48. The method of claim 47, wherein the periodically changing parameter comprises a periodically changing current.   48. The method of claim 47, wherein the periodically changing parameter comprises a periodically changing frequency.   46. The method of claim 45, wherein the at least one parameter comprises a parameter that varies instantaneously.   52. The method of claim 51, wherein the instantaneously changing parameter includes a transient.   53. The method of claim 52, wherein the transient includes a transient voltage.   53. The method of claim 52, wherein the transient includes a transient current.   53. The method of claim 52, wherein the transient includes transient power.   46. The method of claim 45, further comprising providing an adjustment circuit for adjusting synchronization of the lighting effect occurrence with the at least one parameter.   57. The method of claim 56, further comprising adjusting the adjustment circuit.   57. The method of claim 56, wherein the adjustment circuit is configured to provide a substantially continuous range of adjustment.   57. The method of claim 56, wherein the adjustment circuit is configured to provide a plurality of adjustment settings. A processor configured to execute a program to control a lighting effect generated by the lighting device;
The processor is further configured to receive a synchronization signal from an external source;
The processor is further configured to synchronize execution of the program in cooperation with the synchronization signal.   61. The lighting device of claim 60, wherein the processor is associated with a storage device that stores the program.   62. The lighting device according to claim 61, wherein the storage device is inside the lighting device.   61. A lighting device according to claim 60, wherein the external source is another lighting device.   61. A lighting device as recited in claim 60, wherein said external source is a clock generator.   61. The lighting device of claim 60, wherein the processor is configured to receive the synchronization signal via wired communication.   61. The lighting device of claim 60, wherein the processor is configured to receive the synchronization signal via wireless communication.   61. The lighting device of claim 60, wherein the processor is configured to receive the synchronization signal via a power system.   68. The lighting device of claim 67, wherein the power system provides power to the lighting device.   61. The lighting device of claim 60, wherein the lighting device comprises an LED lighting device.   70. The illumination device of claim 69, wherein the LED illumination device is configured to generate controlled colored illumination.

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